Posted on 12/16/2024 by Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery
Have you been told you need a dental implant but don't have enough bone to support it? Don't worry, you're not alone.
Many people experience bone loss in their jaw, which can make it difficult to get dental implants.
But the good news is that there are ways to restore bone mass and make dental implants a possibility.
What causes bone loss in the jaw?
There are several things that can cause bone loss in the jaw, including:
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Periodontal disease: This is a gum infection that can damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth.
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Tooth extractions: When a tooth is extracted, the bone around the tooth can start to shrink.
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Trauma: An injury to the jaw can also cause bone loss.
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Certain medications: Some medications, such as steroids, can cause bone loss as a side effect.
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Smoking: Smoking can also contribute to bone loss in the jaw.
How can bone mass be restored?
The good news is that there are several ways to restore bone mass in the jaw. These include:
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Bone grafting: This is a surgical procedure in which bone is taken from another part of your body (such as your hip or chin) and transplanted to the jaw. The bone graft will then fuse with your existing bone and help to rebuild the lost bone mass.
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Guided bone regeneration: This is a technique that uses a special membrane to encourage your body to grow new bone. The membrane is placed over the area where bone is needed, and it acts as a scaffold for new bone cells to grow.
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Distraction osteogenesis: This is a procedure in which a small device is surgically implanted in the jaw. The device is then slowly stretched over time, which stimulates the bone to grow.
What are the benefits of restoring bone mass?
There are many benefits to restoring bone mass in the jaw. These include:
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Being able to get dental implants: Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth, and they can last a lifetime.
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Improved oral health: Restoring bone mass can help to improve your oral health by preventing further bone loss and gum disease.
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Increased confidence: Having a healthy smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
What are the next steps?
If you're concerned about bone loss in your jaw, the first step is to see your dentist. They will be able to assess your situation and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
Restoring bone mass in the jaw is a safe and effective procedure that can help you to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. If you're considering this option, be sure to talk to your dentist to learn more.
Additional Information:
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The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adults see their dentist for a check-up and cleaning every six months.
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The ADA also recommends that people with risk factors for bone loss, such as periodontal disease or diabetes, see their dentist more often.
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If you have any questions about bone loss or restoring bone mass, please talk to our specialists. They will be happy to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
I hope this information has been helpful. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery, 1000 North Curtis Road, Suite 103, Boise, ID 83706-1337 ^ (208) 343-0909 ^ tvofs.com ^ 1/9/2025 ^ Related Phrases: dental implants Boise ID ^
Have you been told you need a dental implant but don't have enough bone to support it? Don't worry, you're not alone. 